How to Crochet Bobble Stitch

✓Let the Interweave Knits Winter 2024 issue transport you to a winter wonderland of cozy knits! This remarkable edition features 14 extraordinary projects to immerse yourself in the uniqueness of specially crafted yarns.

If you’re looking for a fun and creative way to take your crochet projects up a notch, then look no further! The bobble stitch is the perfect addition that adds texture and depth to give your work an interesting visual effect. With its delightful three-dimensional bubbles popping out from the fabric, this classic stitch has been charming crafters for generations. Ready to get started? Read on and find out how easy it is to learn how to crochet bobble stitch!

Step-by-Step Instructions: Crochet Bobble Stitch

Click the arrows to the right and left to scroll through the step-by-step photos.

Step-by-step photos by Amy Gunderson

We will be working into the next space (photo 1)

Yarn over (photo 2)

Insert hook into stitch or space indicated (photo 3)

Pull up a loop—3 loops on hook (photo 4)

Yarn over and pull through 2 loops—2 loops on hook (photo 5)

Repeat steps 2-5, 4 more times—6 loops on hook (photo 6)

Yarn over (photo 7)

Pull through all loops on hook—stitch complete (photo 8)

Projects Featuring Bobble Stitch and Variations

Hot Cocoa Vest crochet pattern by Sara Dudek — Hot Cocoa Vest by Sara Dudek | Photo by Harper Point Photography

Bobble stitch takes center stage—backstage—in this beautiful vest by Sara Dudek. Clusters of bobbles form the large diamond patterning features across the back of the sweater. Want a shorter length? Easily convert this to a cropped length by removing one of the larger motifs.

Nutmeg Scarf crochet pattern by Joanne Janes — Nutmeg Scarf by Joanne Janes | Photo by Harper Point Photography

Supersize crochet bobbles in this chunky, quick-crochet scarf. Joanne Janes uses wool and mohair for a touch of luxury, but if you’d like a project that you can easily throw in the wash, you may want to consider using an acrylic or superwash yarn.

Winter Pillow crochet pattern by Angela Plunkett — Winter Pillow by Angela Plunkett | Photo by Harper Point Photography

Working bobble stitch in a contrasting color further pops these textured stitches forward. Designer Angela Plunkett celebrates the season in this pillow design, but if you’re ready for winter to move on, you can design your own pillow to say SPRING or SUMMER with the same technique. Just use the chart provided in the pattern to plan your bobble-stitch-letter placement.

Have you ever made a project using bobble stitch? Tell us your best bobble-stitch tip in the comments below!

Originally from Iowa, Amy Gunderson lives in sunny Reno, NV. She’s been the creative director for Universal Yarn, yarn director for Jimmy Beans Wool, and all-around yarn enthusiast for over a decade. Her knit and crochet designs have appeared in most major magazines including Interweave Knits. When she’s not dreaming up a crazy sweater idea, you can find her violining, knitting at the dog park or smashing balls on the tennis court. Follow her on Instagram as @amyyounggunderson or on Ravelry as @amygunderson.

Try Out Bobble Stitch